Structure of Workforce in Kerala: An Analysis Based on Census 1991-2011

The present article examines the trend in the growth of workforce and the change in its structure, in Kerala during the last three decades using census data. The analysis indicates that the work participation rate for women was lower than that of men during 1991–2011. We know that women of Kerala outperform their male counterparts in many developmental indicators, but the study reveals that male workers outnumbered female workers in Kerala during the study period. The gender- based participation rate during 1991–2001 shows a gradual decline for participation of women in the workforce during 1991–2001 and a slight increase in the female work participation rate during 2001–11. This increase indicates a good symbol of economic prosperity. Incremental workforce, especially the male, reduced to marginal workers category. The occupational distribution of the workforce shows that cultivators were declining. In Kerala, less diversity is noted in the industrial category of main workers.